Two men plead not guilty in murder of actor Johnny Wactor

Two men, Robert Barceleau and Sergio Estrada, both 18, accused of murdering former "General Hospital" actor Johnny Wactor, entered pleas of not guilty in a Los Angeles court on Thursday. They face charges of murder, grand theft, and attempted robbery. A third defendant, Frank Olano, 22, also pleaded not guilty to the charge of being an accessory after the fact. A fourth suspect, Leonel Gutierrez, is expected to enter his plea next month.

Wactor was tragically shot and killed on May 25th when he confronted three individuals attempting to steal the catalytic converter from his car.

The 37-year-old actor had just finished his shift at a downtown LA bar when he encountered the thieves.   

After a thorough investigation, which included appeals to the public for information, the four suspects were apprehended and charged. Barceleau faces particularly severe charges, including special circumstances that could lead to a life sentence without parole if convicted. Estrada's charges carry a maximum sentence of life in prison.   

The case has drawn significant attention, highlighting the growing issue of catalytic converter thefts and their sometimes fatal consequences. The Los Angeles community, along with Wactor's family and friends, continues to seek justice for his senseless killing.